Aitchison College Principal Michael A. Thompson resigned on Monday, attributing his decision to what he termed “biased actions by Governor House” and labeling them as “unjustified interference and bold directives.”
The resignation followed by Punjab Governor Balighur Rehman’s move to exempt tuition fees for the two sons of Minister for Economic Affairs and Establishment Ahad Cheema.
In a letter addressed to the college staff, Thompson expressed disappointment over governance issues, emphasizing his commitment to safeguarding the school’s reputation and extending support to those in need. However, he criticized what he described as “blatant policy manipulation to favor certain individuals,” asserting that politics and favoritism had no place in education.
In response to queries regarding Thompson’s resignation and a letter from the governor requesting fee waivers and leave for Cheema’s sons, the Information Minister clarified that the children hadn’t been enrolled at the institution for two years, adding wife of Cheema requested the administration to waive the fee in this regard.
He cited legal provisions allowing fee waivers for non-enrolled students, as per an application submitted by Cheema’s wife.
Tarar defended the action, highlighting education reforms and scholarships, dismissing any misconceptions surrounding the issue.
He emphasized that the fee waiver was pursued within legal parameters, underscoring it as Cheema’s right.
